Migration

Fragomen is recognised internationally as the leading worldwide immigration services provider. In Australia our team of 130 staff, including solicitors and registered migration agents, are located in Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. Operating as a law firm, we are dedicated to advising both corporations and individuals in all aspects of Australian immigration law.

​Last month’s introduction of changes to the Temporary Work (Short Stay Activity) subclass 400 visa program are offering greater flexibility to employers who now, in some circumstances, have a potential alternative to a 457 visa.

If you are an approved 457 standard business sponsor, you are legally required to notify the Australian Department of Immigration and Border Protection (“DIBP”) within 10 working days from when a 457 visa holder ceases employment with you. Failure to do so may result in an administrative sanction by the DIBP.

​A review of Australia’s subclass 457 visa program for essential temporary skilled worker visas is now complete. Conducted by an independent panel, the review makes 22 key recommendations largely favoured by the Department of Immigration and Border Protection (DIBP) and which are seen as positive steps towards a more streamlined visa program. It is expected that a formal government response, including the possible introduction of the necessary legislative changes, will follow in the coming months.

​In our global economy, it’s become more common for employees to travel overseas for business. Business travel by its very nature tends to be urgent and short term, which means that important pre-departure considerations can easily be overlooked. Entry into some countries requires an appropriate visa and in some circumstances certain types of visas have become more difficult to obtain. At the same time, immigration authorities are increasingly scrutinising the use of business visas.